This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and give thanks.Psalm 118:24

I am most anxious to celebrate Thanksgiving this year with our daughter Laura, son-in-law  Dean and a few close neighborhood friends.  In a short while, we will gather at the table  I’ve set with some of my treasured china, silverware and crystal. Out of respect for one another, we’ll observe healthy protocols,  but  then  “Covid 19”  is commanded to be silent.  It’s not invited to sit down with us. Today is a special day of remembering  our history, of getting down on our knees to humbly acknowledge all the Lord’s benefits. Today is a day to celebrate life. L’chaim.

I have so much to be thankful for. God has blessed Dan and me and our family beyond my wildest dreams for each day is a precious gift. Every morning I’m astonished  what blessings flow from the secret place of the Most High. Often His gifts are material. We’re among the fortunate ones who live better, safer, more healthy, less ill and destitute, less fearfully, more free  than 99% of the world. But God’s spiritual blessings are infinite and without measure, like endless rain which falls into the ocean. I’ve learned to open my mouth wide for every drop that falls, even those bitter on the tongue.

As we Americans say grace,  families often share the one thing they are thankful for:  families, friends, loved ones who have passed on, freedoms, health, finances and prosperity. We might remember a  special, compassionate  person who brought  light into our former darkness or those who wisely mentor us.  As Christians we think of eternal salvation. Or the Bible.  Or being reborn into the Body of Christ.  We thank God our Father, Jesus  our Lord and Savior  or the Holy Spirit our Counselor and Comforter.

One day when I stand face to face before God, having shed this hank of skin and bones, I will be dumbstruck, naked before the One who “causes me to tremble. ” What will my Father say to me? What will I be asked? I believe He may say something like this. “ Elfriede, (using my given name !)  I gifted you with much. ” God pauses a moment searching me.   “What are you most most grateful for?”  A video  of  my life plays in the blink of an eye and I see every joyful, sorrowful,  sinful and redeemed  moment flash by.  I see all I’ve received from His hand, an endless outpouring of loving kindness flowing from His own heart. It is not about the gifts at all, but solely about the glorified Giver. The answer is clear before me.

“It’s You, Lord,”  I will answer. “Thank you. It’s You.”